Andrew

Feb 22, 2023

Ruby Crystal

Origins of Ruby Crystal

Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is an aluminum oxide with the chemical formula Al2O3. Corundum is a common mineral that occurs in a range of colors, including blue, yellow, green, pink, and purple. The red color of ruby is due to the presence of chromium atoms in the crystal lattice. Other trace elements such as iron, titanium, and vanadium can also affect the color of corundum.

The name ruby comes from the Latin word ruber, which means red. The gemstone has been known and valued for its color since ancient times. In India, where many of the world's most famous rubies are found, the stone was called ratnaraj, which means king of precious stones. The ancient Greeks and Romans also valued rubies and believed that the gemstone had many powerful properties.

Rubies are found in many parts of the world, including Myanmar (formerly Burma), Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, and Tanzania. The most valuable rubies are those that have a pure, bright red color and are free of inclusions, or imperfections, that can reduce their clarity and transparency.

Properties of Ruby Crystal

Ruby crystal has several properties that make it unique and valuable. Some of these properties include:

Hardness: Ruby has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, which means it is one of the hardest gemstones and is resistant to scratches and abrasions.

Density: Ruby has a density of 3.97-4.05 g/cm3, which is higher than most other gemstones.

Refractive index: Ruby has a refractive index of 1.76-1.78, which is relatively high and gives the gemstone a bright, fiery appearance.

Birefringence: Ruby exhibits birefringence, which means that it splits light into two rays that travel at different speeds and with different polarizations. This property can cause the gemstone to display a double image when viewed through a polarizing filter.

Fluorescence: Some rubies exhibit fluorescence, which means that they emit light when exposed to ultraviolet radiation. This property can make rubies appear to glow in certain lighting conditions

Uses of Ruby Crystal in Science

Ruby crystal has a number of important uses in science and technology. Some of these uses include:

Laser technology: Ruby crystal is a key component of some lasers, including the first laser ever built by Theodore Maiman in 1960. Ruby lasers use a synthetic ruby crystal that is doped with chromium ions. When the crystal is excited with a flash lamp, it emits a short pulse of intense red light that can be used for cutting, welding, and other industrial applications.

Pressure sensors: Ruby crystal can be used to make pressure sensors that can measure high pressures, such as those found in the Earth's mantle or in explosions. The ruby pressure sensor works by measuring the shift in the absorption spectrum of the chromium ions as the pressure on the crystal changes.

Jewelry identification: Ruby crystal can be used to identify other gemstones by testing their hardness. Because ruby is one of the hardest gemstones, it can scratch all other gemstones except diamond. This property makes it a useful tool for gemologists and jewelers.

Uses of Ruby Crystal in Spirituality

Ruby crystal has been used in spiritual and metaphysical practices for centuries. Some of the beliefs and practices associated with ruby crystal include:

Healing properties: In many cultures, ruby crystal is believed to have healing properties. It is said to stimulate the flow of energy in the body, promote vitality and longevity, and aid in the treatment of diseases and disorders such as arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. It is also said to help balance the heart chakra, which is associated with emotions, love, and relationships.

Protection: Ruby crystal is also believed to have protective properties. It is said to guard against negative energies, psychic attacks, and evil spirits. It is also said to help protect against accidents, injuries, and physical harm.

Spiritual growth: Ruby crystal is said to enhance spiritual growth and awareness. It is said to help the wearer connect with their higher self, deepen their spiritual practice, and access higher levels of consciousness.

Love and relationships: Ruby crystal is associated with love and relationships. It is said to attract love, enhance passion, and promote fidelity and commitment in romantic relationships. It is also said to help heal emotional wounds and promote forgiveness.

Some of the ways in which ruby crystal is used in spiritual and metaphysical practices include:

Jewelry: Ruby crystal is often worn as jewelry, such as in rings, necklaces, and bracelets. This is believed to allow the energy of the stone to be absorbed by the wearer, promoting healing, protection, and spiritual growth.

Meditation: Ruby crystal can also be used in meditation and other spiritual practices. Holding or gazing at a ruby crystal is said to help focus the mind, promote relaxation, and enhance spiritual awareness.

Feng shui: Ruby crystal is also used in feng shui, the ancient Chinese art of placement. It is believed to promote prosperity, abundance, and good fortune when placed in the wealth area of a home or office.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ruby crystal is a beautiful and valuable gemstone that has a long and rich history in both science and spirituality. Its unique properties have made it a valuable material in laser technology, pressure sensing, and gemology, while its spiritual and metaphysical properties have made it a popular choice for healing, protection, and spiritual growth. Whether you are drawn to ruby for its beauty, its energy, or its symbolism, it is clear that this gemstone has a special place in the hearts and minds of many people around the world.